Project Adventure
Program Contact: Georgia Kuss • 857-218-3590
PYD is collaborating with Children's Hospital, Boston on a research project called Opening Doors: Project Adventure, a community-based project to help children and youth with disabilities and special health care needs have inclusive recreational experiences in Boston area YMCA's. The four participating YMCA's are Chinatown, Central, Brighton, and Roxbury.
Project Adventure matches adult volunteers (18+) with children between the ages of 6 and 15 to participate in an activity of the child's choice. These activities can include swimming, basketball, aerobics classes, circuit training, etc. depending on the child's age, physical abilities, and what the specific YMCA may offer. The adult volunteer’s role is to assist the child emotionally and physically in the activity.
Matched pairs meet for up to 2 hours a week, for 6 months. Prior to being matched, volunteers complete an in-person interview and approximately 5 hours of required training. Volunteers are also trained in First Aid and CPR. Before starting with Project Adventure, the child may have assistance from a Physical Therapist to help modify activities and set goals, specifically for your child.